Villapudua Addresses Dangers in Sideshows with AB 2807

SACRAMENTO – Assemblymember Carlos Villapudua (D-Stockton) is partnering with the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office on AB 2807 to address the rise in sideshows happening across California.

“The surge in dangerous sideshows seen throughout our communities is unnecessarily putting many young lives at risk,” said Villapudua. “I am excited to be working with my local law enforcement agency to provide a solution that will curb this hazardous activity and ensure we are holding these reckless drivers accountable.”

The escalation of sideshows over recent years has led to increased rates of property damage, violent occurrences, and even deaths. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) has reported 30 deadly crashes and 124 injuries from sideshows and street racing over the past five years alone. It has also led to deadly altercations that have carried out beyond the sideshow event itself.

Earlier this month, the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office detained more than 150 people and seized 88 cars at a single sideshow event. It was later discovered that many of the seized vehicles also contained illegal, loaded firearms and drugs. In a strong stance of zero-tolerance, Sheriff Withrow announced that each seized vehicle will be held until the vehicle owner’s case is settled with the District Attorney.

The Assemblymember and Sheriff’s partnership hopes to provide a solution that will support the safety of neighborhoods across California. AB 2807 is expected to be heard in committee this spring.